Hispanic immigrants are thought to be at a high risk for emotional and mental problems because of the loss, discrimination and poor living conditions they often face, doctors said today at a panel discussion on mental health and immigration at Cooper Green Mercy Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama.

Sylvia Colon, a psychiatrist who now works for Veterans Affairs in Tuscaloosa, and two other doctors presented information on Hispanic immigrants and mental health to about 40 people. Colon, who came to the U.S. from Puerto Rico for her medical residency, said she experienced despair during the transition.

Immigrants are prone to depression, anxiety, substance abuse and other mental and emotional problems, Colon said. Another panelist, Cesar Munoz, said the need for mental health services for Hispanics is great, as that population grows in the Birmingham area.